The PACE program is a financing option for energy efficiency projects available to both homeowners and business owners in Broward County. In general, most products that can be permanently affixed to a property and reduce on-site electric usage, assist in hurricane protection, and/or produce onsite renewable electricity are eligible, such asrooftop solar panels, solar water heater, energy efficient air conditioning unit, cool roof, impact windows, insulation, and more. Property owners voluntarily agree to the program terms for financing, and repay through a non-ad valorem special assessment added to their annual property tax bill.
There may be other types of financing available to property owners and Broward County does not guarantee that the PACE program is the best financing option. You should obtain help in selecting the option that is most appropriate for your particular financial situation. For questions regarding specific qualifying improvements, financing terms, and list of contractors, contact the individual PACE Providers.
Getting Started with PACE
- Review the list of PACE Broward Frequently Asked Questions and read the Be PACE Smart document before applying for financing.
- Understand that each PACE Provider has program guidelines, and that there are differences between the providers administering the program in Broward County. It is up to the property owner to make the best financial decision for financing their project.
- It is highly recommended that property owners perform a comprehensive energy audit on their property before committing to qualifying improvements. To find an energy auditor, contact RESNET, BPI, or the Florida Building Energy Rating System program. Also, FPL offers free Onsite Home Energy Surveys for customers.
- Visit the Department of Energy's Energy Saver webpage for information on efficiency measures, products and services, and design strategies for saving energy.
- Each PACE Provider has a list of their "Approved Contractors" that go through the Provider's application process. As with any home improvement project, you may want to get multiple quotes for the project. Helpful Tips: Contractors
Understanding the Assessment
Under Florida law, property taxes stay with the property when it is sold and the same is true of an assessment. However, the seller’s lender or the buyer's lender (Mortgage Company) most often require the seller to pay off the remaining outstanding balance of the assessment before the property owner can refinance or sell the property. By law, property owners must provide notice of the assessment to the buyer prior to sale of the property. Failure to pay the PACE assessment could trigger foreclosure and property loss
even if the property owner is current on other mortgage lien(s).
Municipal Partners
